There’s a lot of noise out there about the housing market, and it’s easy to get swept up in fear-based headlines. But here’s the truth for Orange County and Costa Mesa: the market isn’t crashing—it’s normalizing. Inventory has risen year over year (up 75% from last May in OC), but we’re still far below historical averages. Demand has remained steady, even with mortgage rates hovering around 7%. So yes, more homes are sitting longer, and yes, we’re seeing more price cuts—but that’s not a red flag. It’s a sign of serious sellers who are adjusting to the market, not a flood of distressed owners trying to unload homes.
That brings us to a key distinction: motivation vs. desperation. A price reduction doesn’t automatically mean there’s something wrong with the home or the seller is in trouble. In many cases, it’s a savvy move to re-position a listing after testing the market or to stay competitive as more homes hit the market this summer. Sellers who reduce their price are often just showing that they’re ready to move—and that can be an advantage for buyers who come prepared. Context matters, and knowing the story behind the price is what creates opportunity.
For buyers, this is a great time to look closely at motivated listings. You might be able to negotiate better terms or snag a turnkey home that didn’t get scooped up right away. But waiting for a dramatic drop might backfire—timing the market rarely works. If rates dip even slightly, demand will spike and competition will be back in full swing. And for sellers, there’s still a strong window to make a move. Homes that are priced right and show well are getting attention. In fact, the average sales-to-list price ratio in OC is still over 99%—so the demand is real when the strategy is right.
Bottom line: Real estate is local, and what’s happening nationally doesn’t always reflect what’s happening on your street. Every price cut, every offer, and every decision has a story behind it—and that’s where I come in. Whether you’re buying, selling, or just figuring out your next move, I’ll help you cut through the noise, read between the lines, and navigate this market with confidence.
